DAN BEEHLER is the drummer & lead vocalist of Canadian speed metal band EXCITER formed in 1978. Named after a song by Judas Priest, they are widely considered to be one of the first speed metal bands and a seminal influence of the thrash metal genre. The band was heavily influenced by a variety of music styles including Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, AC/DC, Deep Purple, Scorpions, Iron Maiden, Motörhead, Rush, Jethro Tull and Grand Funk Railroad. Their debut record, Heavy Metal Maniac, in 1983 is largely accepted as one of the first speed/thrash metal records and is quoted as being a main influence for some of the biggest names in metal today. The band currently consists of original members Dan Beehler (drums/vocals) & Allan Johnson (bass) who are joined by guitarist Daniel Dekay. Known for their energetic, tight, and deafening performances, the band plays material from across their entire legendary Beehler fronted catalog.